Last-Minute Thanksgiving Grocery Shopping in North Texas
Thanksgiving Day is almost here, and while many have their feast plans set, there’s always a chance for a last-minute ingredient run. For North Texas residents, several grocery retailers will be open on Thursday, offering options for those essential forgotten items, though with typically limited hours.
Your Thanksgiving Day Grocery Options
Whether you need an extra can of cranberry sauce or a forgotten herb for your stuffing, a handful of North Texas grocery stores are stepping up to serve shoppers on Thanksgiving Day. It’s crucial, however, to plan your trip for earlier in the day, as most operating hours will be significantly reduced compared to a typical shopping day.
Stores Open and Closed on Thanksgiving
Good news for those unexpected needs! Here’s a quick reference for major grocery and retail chains in the D-FW area, indicating their plans for Thanksgiving Day. Remember, individual store hours can vary, so a quick check of your specific location is always a good idea.
| Grocery Store | Thanksgiving Hours |
|---|---|
| H-E-B | 6 a.m. – 12 p.m. |
| Central Market | Until 2 p.m. |
| Joe V’s Smart Shop | Until 2 p.m. |
| Kroger | Until 5 p.m. |
| WinCo | Until 2:30 p.m. |
| Sprouts Farmers Market | 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. |
| Whole Foods | 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. |
| Tom Thumb | 6 a.m. – 4 p.m. |
| El Rio Grande Latin Market | 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. |
| Fiesta Mart | Until 7 p.m. |
| El Rancho Supermercado | 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. |
| Dollar General | 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. |
| CVS | Hours vary (some until 5 p.m.) |
| Walgreens | Most closed, 24-hour stores open |
| Walmart | CLOSED |
| Target | CLOSED |
| Trader Joe’s | CLOSED |
| Costco | CLOSED |
| Sam’s Club | CLOSED |
| Market Street | CLOSED |
| Aldi | CLOSED |
What to Expect When You Shop
Beyond the operating hours, there’s good news for your wallet this year. Surveys suggest that the average cost for a Thanksgiving feast for ten is about 5% cheaper than last year, with Wells Fargo noting a 2% to 3% price drop thanks to “the bird that beat inflation.” This means your last-minute purchases might come with a slightly lower bill. However, be prepared for potentially higher traffic or a need to visit a less familiar store, especially if your usual spot is among those closed. Early morning visits are highly recommended to ensure you find what you need before doors close.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are all grocery stores in North Texas open on Thanksgiving?
No, several major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco will be closed. However, many options like H-E-B, Kroger, and Tom Thumb will have limited hours. - What are the typical operating hours for stores open on Thanksgiving?
Hours are significantly reduced, often closing by early to mid-afternoon (e.g., 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.), with some convenience stores like Dollar General staying open later. - Will I save money on Thanksgiving groceries this year?
Yes, reports indicate the average cost of a Thanksgiving meal for 10 is about 5% cheaper than last year, with some staples seeing a 2% to 3% price drop. - Should I call ahead to confirm store hours?
Yes, it’s always best to check the specific hours for your local store, as they can vary even within the same chain. - Which stores will be open the latest?
El Rancho Supermercado and Dollar General are noted to be open later than most traditional grocery stores, with El Rancho open until 8 p.m. and Dollar General until 10 p.m. respectively.
As you finalize your holiday preparations in North Texas, remember to check store hours for any last-minute grocery needs and plan to shop early to ensure a smooth and stress-free Thanksgiving Day.
Last Minute Thanksgiving Groceries North Texas
